Helping to teach kids about violence prevention and providing aid to 114 survivors of domestic violence last year, Woolwich Community Services’ Family Violence Prevention program (FVP) will soon get another influx of funds to continue its good work. The annual Jeanne Renault Golf Classic, now in its nineteenth year, is taking place August 15 at the Conestoga Country Club.
Organizers hope to up the ante after successfully raising a total of $11,000 the previous summer.
“It’s a very vital program for Woolwich Community Services; it serves all of Woolwich Township and parts of northern Wellesley Township. Through this money we can head out into the schools and provide public education to young children about how to reduce violence in their lives,” said community resource coordinator Leigh-Anne Quinn this week.
WCS educator Libby Berry visits schools to teach kids about preventing violence in their homes. Each year different topics are chosen for the talks ranging from bullying to maintaining positive relationships.
“Giving children the tools to build healthy relationships can prevent bullying, limit peer pressure and give children the confidence that they need to foster friendships that will help them to reach their full potential,” she said.
During the program kids learn to manage emotions like anger, learn how to cope with stress, develop refusal skills to help them stand up for themselves and build on communicating with confidence and respect for others.
“The program has been embraced by area schools and their partnership in reinforcing the healthy relationship curriculum is deeply appreciated,” she added.
Adults with history of experiencing domestic violence or controlling relationships can access the program’s ongoing individual support systems, including education and safety planning, services that create options and help individuals make informed decisions in relationships, Quinn explained.
The FVP program can also refer clients to other community services including housing assistance, financial services, therapeutic counselling and legal support.
Quinn says the program enjoys strong support from the community every year.
“We’re always, of course, looking for new golfers to make foursomes and come out and support the great cause.”
The day includes 18 holes of golf with carts, as well as the usual extras such as closest-to-the-pin and a putting contests.
The evening will include a dinner at the Conestoga Country Club, complete with a silent auction, prize table, gift bags and awards for the days mixed champions and men’s and women’s team winners.
There is still time to register a team, or participants can choose to come out for the dinner portion of the evening only. To register for the August 15 event, contact Quinn at 519-669-5139 or email leighanne_wcs@yahoo.ca.
